【Kantai Collection -Kancolle- (Aomori Prefecture, Aomori City)】
Introduction: Why Aomori Prefecture is a Sacred Site for Kancolle
If you’re a Kantai Collection -Kancolle- player, you’re likely aware that there’s a server name called “Ominato” within the game. This Ominato is derived from the “Ominato Guard District” of the former Imperial Japanese Navy located in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture. In the world of Kancolle, Mutsu City in Aomori Prefecture is positioned as one of the important sacred sites, making it a destination for many admirals.
This article provides a thorough explanation of the appeal of Kancolle sacred site pilgrimage in Aomori Prefecture. From the history of the Ominato Guard District, to the exhibits in Mutsu Science and Technology Museum, to locations connected to ship girls, and even actual travel plans—this guide comprehensively covers information that admirals want to know.
The Deep Connection Between Kancolle and Aomori Prefecture
The Ominato Guard District
The Ominato Guard District was an important port of the former Imperial Japanese Navy established in 1902 (Meiji 35), and was later promoted to Guard District status, becoming a key point in northern defense. Along with the Yokosuka, Kure, Sasebo, and Maizuru Naval Districts, it functioned as a crucial base for the Japanese Navy.
Within the Kancolle game, “Ominato Guard District Server” exists as one of the servers (naval districts) that players are assigned to. This is modeled after the actual Ominato Guard District, making it the primary reason why Mutsu City in Aomori Prefecture is considered a Kancolle sacred site.
Connections Between Ship Girls and Aomori Prefecture
In Aomori Prefecture, particularly in Mutsu City, there are multiple locations with connections to ship girls. The battleship “Mutsu” is naturally connected to Mutsu City, whose name derives from Mutsu Province. Additionally, special-class destroyers such as “Hatsuyuki” and “Shirayuki” were based at Ominato during certain periods, making Aomori Prefecture a particularly special place for fans of these ship girls.
Major Sacred Sites in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture
Mutsu Science and Technology Museum
Facility Overview
The Mutsu Science and Technology Museum is a science and technology facility centered around “Mutsu,” the world’s first nuclear-powered ship, and is a must-see destination for Kancolle fans. The museum features abundant exhibits related to marine science technology and shipbuilding, as well as displays of materials from the former Imperial Japanese Navy.
Exhibits of Interest to Kancolle Fans
- Battleship Mutsu-Related Exhibits: Materials and models related to the battleship “Mutsu” are displayed, making it a moving place for fans of the ship girl “Mutsu.” Mutsu is known as a tragic battleship that mysteriously sank in 1943 at Hashirajima anchorage.
- Ominato Naval-Related Materials: Photographs and materials from the era of the former Ominato Guard District are displayed, allowing visitors to learn about the naval situation of that time.
- Ship Model Collection: Numerous precision models of destroyers, cruisers, and other vessels are displayed, allowing visitors to see the actual ships that became the ship girls.
Access Information
- Address: 693 Kitasekine, Sekine, Ominato Ward, Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture
- Hours: 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday), year-end and new year period
- Admission: 440 yen for adults, 330 yen for high school students, 220 yen for elementary and junior high students
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes by bus from JR Ominato Line Shimokita Station
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Ominato Regional Base
Public Open House Events
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Ominato Regional Base holds several public open houses and destroyer ship exhibitions each year. These are rare opportunities to view modern-day “ship girls,” so to speak—escort ships up close.
Points to Note During Visits
- Escort Ship Interior Tours: On open house days, visitors may be able to tour the interior of escort ships. Seeing actual docks and bridges firsthand brings the in-game depictions closer to reality.
- Impressive Scale of Vessels: The actual size and impact of escort ships cannot be conveyed through photographs or video alone. You can truly appreciate how significant the actual ships of the ship girls you’ve trained are.
- Maritime Self-Defense Force Curry: During events, the famous Maritime Self-Defense Force curry may be served.
Notes for Visits
Since public open houses are held irregularly, it’s necessary to check the official website of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Ominato Regional Base in advance for dates. Additionally, you may be required to present identification, so be sure to bring it with you.
Ominato Naval Cemetery
History and Significance
The Ominato Naval Cemetery is where military personnel and employees of the former Imperial Japanese Navy are buried. It is considered an important sacred site among Kancolle fans as a place to pay respects to the war dead.
Etiquette for Visits
When visiting as a sacred site pilgrimage, always follow these rules of conduct:
- Be Quiet: A cemetery is a place for mourning. Speaking loudly or making noise is strictly prohibited.
- Photography: Refrain from photographing gravestones. Be cautious about posting on social media.
- Leaving Flowers: If you wish to leave flowers, it’s best to confirm with the cemetery administrator beforehand.
- Consideration for Family Members: Family members may be visiting. Always act with respect.
Hokuyokan (Mutsu City Sea and Forest Interaction Experience Hall)
Hokuyokan allows visitors to learn about the maritime culture and fishing history of the Shimokita Peninsula. While the connection to the Navy is indirect, it’s worth visiting to understand the culture of Shimokita living with the sea.
Visiting Locations Connected to Ship Girls
Locations Related to Battleship “Mutsu”
Mutsu Memorial Hall (Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture)
While located outside Aomori Prefecture, fans of Battleship Mutsu should visit the Mutsu Memorial Hall in Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. The main guns and belongings of the salvaged Mutsu are displayed here, allowing visitors to deeply understand the history of the actual ship that became the ship girl “Mutsu.”
Some admirals carry out “extreme sacred site pilgrimage” by visiting both Mutsu Science and Technology Museum in Aomori and Mutsu Memorial Hall in Yamaguchi in a short period, but this requires careful planning due to the extremely long travel distance.
Mutsu-Related Monuments in Mutsu City
There are monuments and explanatory plaques related to Battleship Mutsu within Mutsu City. You may enjoy searching for these while exploring the city.
Locations Related to Destroyers
Numerous destroyers were based at Ominato. In particular, Aomori Prefecture holds special significance for fans of the following ship girls:
- Hatsuyuki: A special-class destroyer that was based at Ominato during certain periods.
- Shirayuki: A sister ship of Hatsuyuki, also connected to Ominato.
- Murakumo: A destroyer that was assigned to the Ominato Guard District.
Naval Shrine Divisions and Their Original Shrines
Naval Shrines
Naval shrine divisions were established aboard Imperial Japanese Navy vessels to pray for safe voyages and military victory. These were derived from existing actual shrines, and visiting the original shrines is another form of sacred site pilgrimage.
Related Shrines in Aomori Prefecture
There are likely shrines in Aomori Prefecture that served as original shrines for naval shrine divisions. When visiting local shrines, researching their connection to naval vessels may reveal new discoveries.
Travel Planning for Aomori Prefecture
Access Methods
Airplane
- Aomori Airport: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Tokyo (Haneda). About 2 hours 30 minutes by bus from the airport to Mutsu City.
- Misawa Airport: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Tokyo (Haneda). About 1 hour 30 minutes by bus from the airport to Mutsu City. Misawa Airport is closer to Mutsu City and is recommended.
Train
- Tohoku Shinkansen + Local Train: About 3 hours by shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori, then about 2 hours 30 minutes by Aomori Railway and JR Ominato Line to Shimokita Station.
- Sleeper Train: The sleeper train “Akebono” once operated but is now discontinued.
Night Bus
Night buses operate from Tokyo to Aomori City. This is a recommended option for admirals looking to save on transportation costs. Travel from Aomori City to Mutsu City by local bus.
Automobile
Approximately 10 hours by car from Tokyo to Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture. It’s also possible to stop at sacred sites in Miyagi and Iwate prefectures along the way.
Accommodations
Hotels in Mutsu City
- Mutsu Grand Hotel: Located in central Mutsu City, convenient for sightseeing.
- Hotel New Green: A business hotel near JR Shimokita Station.
- Tonan Onsen Hotel: An accommodation facility with hot spring amenities.
Surrounding Areas
The Shimokita Peninsula has many tourist attractions such as Osorezan and Hotoke-ga-Ura, so staying for multiple days while combining regional tourism is also recommended.
Recommended Length of Stay
If only visiting Kancolle sacred sites in Mutsu City, one day is sufficient, but to enjoy leisurely sightseeing and explore the Shimokita Peninsula, a stay of 2–3 days is recommended.
Food and Dining
Local Specialties of Mutsu City
- Scallops: Scallops from Mutsu Bay are excellent. Enjoy them as sashimi, grilled, fried, or in other preparations.
- Oma Tuna: The Shimokita Peninsula’s Oma is famous for bluefin tuna. If timing allows, definitely try this delicacy.
- Beko Mochi: A regional sweet of Aomori Prefecture, known for its simple flavor.
- Navy Curry: During Maritime Self-Defense Force events, you may have the opportunity to taste authentic navy curry.
Multi-Base Circuit Plans
Northern Japan Circuit Route
When visiting the Ominato Guard District in Aomori Prefecture, combined circuit plans with other sacred sites are also popular.
Combination with Yokosuka Naval District
A route that proceeds from Tokyo through Yokosuka to Aomori. In Yokosuka, you can visit the memorial ship “Mikasa” and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Yokosuka Base.
Combination with Maizuru Naval District
Maizuru City in Kyoto Prefecture is also an important Kancolle sacred site. A route heading north from Maizuru along the Sea of Japan coast to Aomori is also possible.
Kancolle Spots in the Tohoku Region
On the way to Aomori, there are other Kancolle-related spots in the Tohoku region:
- Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture: Shiogama Shrine is the original shrine for the naval shrine divisions of multiple vessels.
- Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture: A location connected to the destroyer “Miyako.”
Etiquette and Precautions for Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Basic Etiquette
The subject matter of Kancolle is based on actual ships and the history of those who fought aboard them. When conducting sacred site pilgrimages, always follow these rules of conduct:
Be Especially Careful at Places of Mourning
- Be quiet and respectful at cemeteries and memorials
- Refrain from photography; be cautious about social media posts
- Never forget consideration for the bereaved and local residents
- Perform flower offerings and prayers using proper etiquette
Rules for Facility Use
- Do not touch exhibits
- Do not photograph in areas marked as off-limits
- View exhibits quietly within museums
- Always take your trash with you
Consideration for the Community
- Do not make noise in residential areas
- Do not trespass on private property
- Do not inconvenience local residents
- Show consideration for others when using public transportation
Mindset When Visiting War Remains
Kancolle is a game based on the history of war. Use sacred site pilgrimages as an opportunity to deepen your understanding of actual history and the war dead.
- Learn History: Research the historical background of a location before visiting
- Show Respect: Never forget respect for those who died and the ships that were sunk
- Reflect on Peace: Use this as an opportunity to consider the tragedy of war and the importance of peace
Combining Regional Tourism with Aomori Prefecture
Attractions of the Shimokita Peninsula
Enjoy exploring the Shimokita Peninsula while combining it with Kancolle sacred site pilgrimage.
Osorezan
One of Japan’s three great spiritual mountains. A spiritually significant site known for its distinctive landscape and sulfur scent. Approximately 30 minutes by car from Mutsu City.
Hotoke-ga-Ura
A scenic area of unusual rock formations on the western coast of the Shimokita Peninsula. The contrast between emerald-green waters and white rock faces is beautiful.
Oma Cape
The northernmost point of Honshu. On clear days, you can see Hokkaido. Also famous as a bluefin tuna production area.
Sightseeing in Aomori City
If passing through Aomori City, these tourist attractions are also recommended:
- Aomori Prefectural Museum of Art: Displays contemporary art and works by local artists
- Sannai Maruyama Ruins: A large Jomon-period settlement site
- Nebuta House Wa-Rasse: A facility where you can experience the appeal of Aomori Nebuta Festival year-round
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy
Spring (April–June)
Cherry blossom season. Parks in Mutsu City offer cherry blossoms. The temperature is also pleasant, making this an ideal time for tourism.
Summer (July–September)
The Aomori Nebuta Festival is held in early August. Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force public open houses also frequently occur during summer. However, this is also typhoon season, so weather precautions are necessary.
Autumn (October–November)
A season of beautiful autumn foliage. Osorezan’s autumn colors are particularly stunning. Seafood is also delicious during this period, making it ideal for culinary enjoyment.
Winter (December–March)
Heavy snowfall is common, and transportation may be disrupted. Visiting in winter requires thorough preparation, but the rough winter Sea of Japan and snowy landscapes are also appealing. Warming up at hot springs is recommended.
Budget Estimate for Aomori Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage
For a One-Night, Two-Day Trip
- Transportation: 25,000–40,000 yen from Tokyo (by airplane), 15,000–20,000 yen (by night bus)
- Accommodation: 5,000–10,000 yen per night
- Meals: 3,000–5,000 yen per day
- Museum Admission: 1,000–2,000 yen
- Miscellaneous: 5,000–10,000 yen
Total: Approximately 35,000–65,000 yen
Cost-Saving Tips
- Use night buses to reduce transportation costs
- Stay at business hotels or guesthouses
- Purchase meals at local supermarkets or convenience stores
- Use sightseeing passes or free-ride tickets
Conclusion: The Appeal of Aomori Prefecture Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Mutsu City in Aomori Prefecture holds special significance for Kancolle fans. Through the history of the former Ominato Guard District, connections to Battleship Mutsu, and the activities of the modern Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, the world of the game becomes more deeply understood.
Through museum exhibits, viewing Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels, and paying respects to the war dead, you can touch upon the history of the actual ships that became ship girls and the thoughts of those who fought aboard them.
Sacred site pilgrimage is not merely tourism but an opportunity to learn history and contemplate peace. By following proper etiquette and approaching with respect, the experience becomes more meaningful.
You can also enjoy the unique attractions of Aomori Prefecture: the rich natural beauty of the Shimokita Peninsula, delicious seafood, and hot springs. Through Kancolle sacred site pilgrimage, discover new appeals of Aomori Prefecture.
May your sacred site pilgrimage to Aomori Prefecture become a wonderful memory. Are you ready to sortie?
Reference Information and Links
Official Websites
- Mutsu Science and Technology Museum Official Website
- Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Ominato Regional Base Official Website
- Mutsu City Tourism Association Official Website
Related Books
- “Kantai Collection” Official Secretariat Publications
- Japanese Naval History-Related Books
- Battleship Mutsu-Related Materials
Social Media Communities
Information about Kancolle sacred site pilgrimages is shared among other admirals on Twitter, pixiv, and other platforms. Searching hashtags such as “#Kancolle Sacred Site Pilgrimage” and “#Ominato” can provide the latest information and experiences from other admirals.
Before visiting, confirm the latest information and enjoy a safe and fun sacred site pilgrimage.
